Hurricane Humberto Escalates to Category 4, Remains Offshore
Hurricane Humberto intensified to a Category 4 storm on September 13, 2023, with maximum sustained winds reaching 145 mph. Forecasters indicate that while the storm is expected to strengthen further, it is predicted to remain out to sea and will not pose a direct threat to the U.S. East Coast. As of late Friday, the National Hurricane Center confirmed that there were no coastal watches or warnings in effect.
The projected path of Hurricane Humberto shows it moving northwest before shifting north and northeast, passing between the U.S. East Coast and Bermuda. This trajectory minimizes the risk to populated areas along the coast.
In addition to Humberto, meteorologists are monitoring a second system, designated as Potential Tropical Cyclone 9, located northwest of Cuba. This disturbance is anticipated to develop into a tropical storm over the weekend, with forecasts indicating it may reach hurricane intensity by early next week as it approaches the southeast U.S. coast.
Potential Tropical Cyclone 9 has maximum sustained winds of 35 mph as of Friday night, with tropical storm warnings currently in place for the Central Bahamas. A tropical storm watch is also active for parts of the northwest Bahamas. The system is projected to bring significant rainfall, with eastern Cuba expected to receive up to a foot of rain and the Bahamas facing 4 to 8 inches.
Forecast and Potential Impact on the U.S.
The National Hurricane Center has indicated that Potential Tropical Cyclone 9 could impact the U.S. coastline by Monday or Tuesday. The storm may move north along Florida’s Atlantic coast before heading toward South Carolina. The center highlighted the risk of storm surge and wind impacts, stating, “The system is expected to be at or near hurricane intensity when it approaches the southeast U.S. coast.”
While the forecast track is relatively certain for the next few days, there is increased uncertainty beyond that period. The agency noted that the system may slow down significantly or even stall near the South Carolina coast, which could exacerbate flooding concerns in the region.
As meteorologists continue to track both weather systems closely, residents along the southeastern U.S. coast are encouraged to stay informed about potential developments and prepare for changing conditions. The National Hurricane Center remains a key source for updates and guidance as these storms evolve.
